There is an epidemic among senior leaders these days in all kinds of organizations: Setting Big, Stupid Goals. That sounds kind of harsh, so allow me to explain. It is true that research shows that higher goals generally lead to higher levels of performance. Unfortunately, this is as far as some leaders have read in their “how to be a boss” book. The “higher goals” … [Read more...] about Big, Stupid Goals vs Big, Inspiring Goals
Inspiration
That’s Me
Following years of reflecting on the matter, I believe that we are each in our current life situation totally due to luck. I am lucky I was born a white male in the USA. I am lucky that I was born to my parents who – though not well off financially – were college educated and caring, loving people. I am lucky to have been born with a healthy body. I am lucky to have … [Read more...] about That’s Me
Slow Down & Choose What Matters
Visualize you are on a speeding train, looking out the window and observing the blending and blurring of tree branches, signs and buildings as you accelerate. Now, picture this train as a metaphor for your life. Think about what you saw. Are you appreciating the view, or is it also a blur? It is not uncommon for people to get caught up in daily demands and become oblivious … [Read more...] about Slow Down & Choose What Matters
Reentry from Your Vacation
What an awesome vacation!!! But now . . . reality is setting in. You return to work tomorrow. And you are NOT fired up about that. First, appreciate that this is normal – especially if you successfully unplugged during your vacation and you were out for more than a week. Returning to work is a dramatic change in routine and orientation. Following are some ideas to … [Read more...] about Reentry from Your Vacation
Humble Leadership
Some people will think that “humble leadership” is a contradiction in terms. The stereotype that some have about a “leader” is that they are all about themselves, self-absorbed, and boastful. While there are certainly leaders like that, many of us don’t believe that it is what “true” leadership is all about. Jim Collins called it “Level 5” leadership in his excellent … [Read more...] about Humble Leadership